My samples of the new formulation hard soap arrived yesterday and I have now had two shaves with it. Scents are Sheridan's and English Rose. I have used the Rose only at this stage.
Executive Summary - An excellent soap, which, while not the equal of Super Smooth, should be very successful at a lower price point. This will appeal to those who want a good soap but choose not to pay the high price of SS and other Premium soaps.
Scent - English Rose is lovely. Mild on the dry soap but springing up in a lively but not agressive fashion when lathered. I like the Sheridans when dry, but haven't shaved with it yet.
Lather - Brush loading is quick and it builds to a good, creamy lather. It is not the equal of SS, spreading more thinly even if kept on the dry side.
Protection - Here is where this soap scores. Even though the lather is thinner when applied than some other products, it provides excellent protection. 'Blade feel' was reduced and no weepers!
Skin Care - Skin is nicely moisturised. Very good feel.
This is a winner and should be very successful at a lower cost then SS. I don't see it challenging the supremacy of SS amongst those who are willing to pay the extra. The two products are sufficiently differentiated to co-exist.
One final, minor point. Probably down to particular batch conditions but I don't think you could really term this a 'hard' soap. My own samples are very easily pressed into a container and this batch is MUCH softer then the previous formulation. It can be rolled between the fingers and molded easily. It's not something that matters in the least but might impact on how it should be described for marketing purposes.
